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That mischievous little look immediately creeps across her face while she slowly turns on the stool to face the apartment door more fully.

Like she’s settling in for entertainment.

The door swings open a minute later.

Noir walks inside looking exhausted enough that even Blair’s expression flickers briefly.

Pale hair messy. Dark clothes wrinkled. Rings flashing beneath morning sunlight while shadows sit heavy beneath his eyes.

He looks like he hasn’t slept at all.

Honestly?

Neither have I.

His eyes immediately land on Blair sitting at the kitchen island wearing my clothes.

Something flashes across his face instantly.

Relief.

Then jealousy.

Then something darker underneath both.

Possessive.

Fucking annoying.

Blair notices too because she notices everything.

Slowly, her brows lift while she looks between both of us.

Then the corner of her mouth twitches.

“Oh,” she says lightly. “That’s an interesting vibe.”

Noir ignores her completely while dropping the duffle bag beside the couch.

I eye it immediately.

“What’s that?”

“My stuff.”

“…Why?”

Noir finally looks at me.

“If she’s staying here,” he says flatly, “I’m staying here too.”

My jaw tightens immediately.

“You serious?”

“You already let her sneak out once.”

Blair perks up instantly at that, clearly delighted she’s suddenly become the center of conflict again.